Anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-diabetic evaluation of ethanolic leaf extract of Catharanthus roseus alone and in combination therapy

The use of plants in disease treatment is cost effective and relatively safe. This study was designed to investigate anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-diabetic activity of ethanolic leaf extract of Catharanthus roseus alone and in combination therapy in hyperlipidemic & diabetic mice. Eight groups comprising five mice each were used. Group A was hyperlipidemic control, group B, C, D received atorvastatin (20 mg/kg), leaf extract (200 mg/kg) and leaf extract in combination with atorvastatin (200 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg) orally for 15 days. Group E was diabetic control. Group F, G, H received sitagliptin (40 mg/kg), leaf extract (200 mg/kg) and extract in combination with sitagliptin (200 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg) orally for 7 days. Blood cholesterol levels were measured at 1st, 5th, 10th and 15th day and fasting blood sugar levels were measured at 2, 12, 24, 72 and 168 hours during treatment. One-way ANOVA with tukey- kramer multiple comparison test was used. The chemical characterization of ethanolic extract of Catharanthus roseus leaves showed presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins and flavonoids. Ethanolic extract of Catharanthus roseus has significant anti-hyperlipidemic & anti-diabetic effects (p<0.05, p<0.01) when compared with control but had not cause significantly increase in anti-hyperlipidemic effects of atorvastatin. While significantly increased the antidiabetic effect of sitagliptin (p<0.05)

Attenuation of atherogenic apo B-48-dependent hyperlipidemia and high density lipoprotein remodeling induced by vitamin C and E combination and their beneficial effect on lethal ischemic heart disease in mice

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is highly prevalent and its underlying pathogenesis involves dyslipidemia including pro-atherogenic high density lipoprotein (HDL) remodeling. Vitamins C and E have been proposed as atheroprotective agents for cardiovascular disease management. However, their effects and benefits on high density lipoprotein function and remodeling are unknown. In this study, we evaluated the role of vitamin C and E on non HDL lipoproteins as well as HDL function and remodeling, along with their effects on inflammation/ oxidation biomarkers and atherosclerosis in atherogenic diet-fed SR-B1 KO/ApoER61h/h mice. METHODS AND RESULTS: Mice were pre-treated for 5 weeks before and during atherogenic diet feeding with vitamin C and E added to water and diet, respectively. Compared to a control group, combined vitamin C and E administration reduced serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels by decreasing apo B-48-containing lipoproteins, remodeled HDL particles by reducing phospholipid as well as increasing PON1 and apo D content, and diminished PLTP activity and levels. Vitamin supplementation improved HDL antioxidant function and lowered serum TNF-α levels. Vitamin C and E combination attenuated atherogenesis and increased lifespan in atherogenic diet-fed SR-B1 KO/ApoER61h/h mice. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin C and E administration showed significant lipid metabolism regulating effects, including HDL remodeling and decreased levels of apoB-containing lipoproteins, in mice. In addition, this vitamin supplementation generated a cardioprotective effect in a murine model of severe and lethal atherosclerotic ischemic heart disease.

Increased ROS production and DNA damage in monocytes are biomarkers of aging and atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND: New evidence demonstrates that aging and dyslipidemia are closely associated with oxidative stress, DNA damage and apoptosis in some cells and extravascular tissues. However, in monocytes, which are naturally involved in progression and/or resolution of plaque in atherosclerosis, this concurrence has not yet been fully investigated. In this study, we evaluated the influence of aging and hypercholesterolemia on serum pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, DNA damage and apoptosis in monocytes from apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE-/-) mice compared with age-matched wild-type C57BL/6 (WT) mice. Experiments were performed in young (2-months) and in old (18-months) male wild-type (WT) and apoE-/- mice. RESULTS: Besides the expected differences in serum lipid profile and plaque formation, we observed that atherosclerotic mice exhibited a significant increase in monocytosis and in serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to WT mice. Moreover, it was observed that the overproduction of ROS, led to an increased DNA fragmentation and, consequently, apoptosis in monocytes from normocholesterolemic old mice, which was aggravated in age-matched atherosclerotic mice. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we demonstrate that a pro-inflammatory systemic status is associated with an impairment of functionality of monocytes during aging and that these parameters are fundamental extra-arterial contributors to the aggravation of atherosclerosis. The present data open new avenues for the development of future strategies with the purpose of treating atherosclerosis.

Orange juice with a high-fat meal prolongs postprandial lipemia in apparently healthy overweight/obese women

ABSTRACT Objective We investigated the postprandial response of lipid markers to a high-fat meal (HFM) with two different beverages in apparently healthy normal-weight and overweight/obese women. Subjects and methods This crossover, randomized study enrolled 36 women, of whom 21 had normal weight (body mass index [BMI] 22 ± 1.8 kg/m2) and 15 had overweight/obesity (BMI 31 ± 3.7 kg/m2). In two different test days, the participants ingested a HFM (37% of energy as saturated fat) with 500 mL of water (HFM-W) or 500 mL of orange juice (HFM-OJ). Blood samples were collected at baseline (12-hour fasting), and at 2, 3, and 5 hours postprandial. The analysis included fasting and postprandial total cholesterol, HDL-c, LDL-c, triglycerides (TG), uric acid, and complement C3. Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBEC); Primary Identification Number: RBR-2h3wjn (www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br). Results TG levels increased at 3 hours with HFM-OJ in normal-weight women (p = 0.01) and returned to normal levels at 5h. TG increased at 3 hours with HFM-W (p = 0.01) and HFM-OJ (p = 0.02), and remained high at 5 hours (p = 0.03) in overweight/obese women. Complement C3 remained unchanged, but showed different responses between meals (p = 0.01 for positive incremental area under the curve [piAUC] HFM-OJ vs. HFM-W, respectively). Conclusions In apparently healthy overweight/obese women compared with normal-weight ones, the concomitant intake of orange juice with a HFM prolonged postprandial lipemia but had no effect on postprandial complement C3 concentrations.

Avaliação de Compostos Bioativos, Composição Físico-Química e Atividade Antioxidante In Vitro da Farinha de Berinjela / Assessment of Bioactive Compounds, Physicochemical Composition, and In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Eggplant Flour

Fundamento: A berinjela (Solanum melongena) é um fruto de consumo mundial. Seu processamento em forma de farinha é uma maneira de evitar perdas e aproveitar suas características nutricionais. Objetivos: Este estudo avaliou a composição físico-química (umidade, proteínas, lipídeos, fibra bruta, carboidratos, minerais, niacina, saponinas, acidez titulável, fibra alimentar e fenóis totais) da farinha de berinjela preparada a partir do fruto inteiro desidratado em estufa. Métodos: Avaliou-se a atividade antioxidante in vitro usando os seguintes ensaios: radical 2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazila (DPPH); poder antioxidante de redução do ferro (FRAP); e análise de polifenóis com Cromatografia Líquida de Alta Eficiência (CLAE - ácido clorogênico, ácido cafeico, ácido ferúlico e rutina). Resultados: Verificou-se a presença de: 23,09% de carboidratos; 13,34% de proteínas; 1,85% de lipídeos; 39,19% de fibras totais; 1.540 mg/100 g de compostos fenólicos solúveis totais; 840 mg/100 g de saponinas; minerais (potássio, magnésio, cobre, ferro, zinco, manganês); e niacina. Observou-se atividade antioxidante in vitro para DPPH (455,6 mg de ácido ascórbico/100 g) e FRAP (486,8 mg de ácido ascórbico/100 g). A CLAE determinou a presença de ácido ascórbico, tirosina e ácidos fenólicos (ácido clorogênico, ácido cafeico e ácido ferúlico). Conclusão: A farinha de berinjela tem alto teor de fibra além de bom teor de compostos fenólicos e saponinas com importante capacidade antioxidante observada através de ensaios in vitro. A farinha de berinjela é uma boa opção para ser adicionada à dieta da população, devido aos seus potenciais benefícios à saúde

Background: The eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a fruit of world consumption. Its processing in the form of flour is a way to avoid losses and to take advantage of its nutritional characteristics. Objective: This study assessed the physicochemical composition (moisture, proteins, lipids, crude fiber, carbohydrates, minerals, niacin, saponins, titratable acidity, dietary fiber, and total phenols) of eggplant flour prepared from the whole fruit dehydrated in an oven. Methods: In vitro antioxidant activity was assessed using the following methods: 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH); Ferric Reducing/ Antioxidant Power (FRAP); and analysis of polyphenols using HPLC (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and rutin). Results: It was possible to observe: 23.09% carbohydrates; 13.34% proteins; 1.85% lipids; 39.19% total fibers; 1,540 mg/100 g total soluble phenolic compounds; 840 mg/100 g saponins; minerals (potassium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, manganese); and niacin. In vitro antioxidant activity was observed through DPPH (455.6 mg ascorbic acid/100 g) and FRAP (486.8 mg ascorbic acid/100 g). The HPLC method determined the presence of ascorbic acid, tyrosine, and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid). Conclusion: The eggplant flour had great fiber content in addition to good content of phenolic compounds and saponins with important antioxidant capacity observed through in vitro assays. As a result, eggplant flour is a good addition to the diet of the population, since it can bring potential health benefits

Gingival crevicular fluid oxidative stress level in patients with periodontal disease and hyperlipidemia

Abstract: This study aimed to assess the impact of hyperlipidemia on healthy and diseased periodontal tissue by evaluating oxidative stress biomarkers in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Clinical periodontal parameters and blood serum lipid, GCF malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), and total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) levels were evaluated in six age and sex-matched groups (n = 15 each) of normolipidemic and hyperlipidemic individuals as follows: normolipidemic + periodontally healthy (H), normolipidemic + gingivitis (G), normolipidemic + chronic periodontitis (CP), hyperlipidemic + periodontally healthy (HH), hyperlipidemic + gingivitis (HG), and hyperlipidemic + CP (HCP). GCF MDA, and PC levels varied among groups, with patients with periodontitis having the highest MDA and PC levels [CP > G > H (p < 0.01) and HCP > HG > HH (p < 0.01)] and the lowest TAOC levels [CP < G < H (p < 0.01) and HCP < HG < HH (p < 0.01)]. Furthermore, paired comparisons showed MDA and PC levels to be higher and TAOC levels to be lower in HCP compared with NCP (p < 0.01). In patients with hyperlipidemia, GCF, MDA, and PC levels positively correlated with clinical assessments and serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) levels and negatively correlated with serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) levels, whereas GCF TAOC levels negatively correlated with clinical assessments and serum TG, TC, and LDL levels, but positively correlated with serum HDL levels (p < 0.01). In normolipidemic patients, GCF, MDA, and PC levels positively correlated with clinical assessments and serum TG levels and negatively correlated with serum HDL levels, whereas GCF TAOC levels negatively correlated with clinical assessments and serum TG levels and positively correlated with serum HDL levels (p < 0.01). In conclusion, abnormal serum lipid subfractions could be considered a risk factor for enhancing oxidative stress in GCF in the presence of periodontal disease.

Endothelial Effect of Statin Therapy at a High Dose Versus Low Dose Associated with Ezetimibe / Efeito Endotelial da Terapia com Estatina em Alta Dose versus Baixa Dose Associada à Ezetimiba

Abstract Background: The effect of statins on the endothelial function in humans remains under discussion. Particularly, it is still unclear if the improvement in endothelial function is due to a reduction in LDL-cholesterol or to an arterial pleiotropic effect. Objective: To test the hypothesis that modulation of the endothelial function promoted by statins is primarily mediated by the degree of reduction in LDL-cholesterol, independent of the dose of statin administered. Methods: Randomized clinical trial with two groups of lipid-lowering treatment (16 patients/each) and one placebo group (14 patients). The two active groups were designed to promote a similar degree of reduction in LDL-cholesterol: the first used statin at a high dose (80 mg, simvastatin 80 group) and the second used statin at a low dose (10 mg) associated with ezetimibe (10 mg, simvastatin 10/ezetimibe group) to optimize the hypolipidemic effect. The endothelial function was assessed by flow-mediated vasodilation (FMV) before and 8 weeks after treatment. Results: The decrease in LDL-cholesterol was similar between the groups simvastatin 80 and simvastatin 10/ezetimibe (27% ± 31% and 30% ± 29%, respectively, p = 0.75). The simvastatin 80 group presented an increase in FMV from 8.4% ± 4.3% at baseline to 11% ± 4.2% after 8 weeks (p = 0.02). Similarly, the group simvastatin 10/ezetimibe showed improvement in FMV from 7.3% ± 3.9% to 12% ± 4.4% (p = 0.001). The placebo group showed no variation in LDL-cholesterol level or endothelial function. Conclusion: The improvement in endothelial function with statin seems to depend more on a reduction in LDL-cholesterol levels, independent of the dose of statin administered, than on pleiotropic mechanisms.

Resumo Fundamento: O efeito das estatinas na função endotelial em seres humanos permanece em discussão. Particularmente, ainda carece resposta se a melhora na função endotelial deve-se à redução do LDL-colesterol ou a um efeito pleiotrópico arterial. Objetivo: Testar a hipótese de que a modulação da função endotelial promovida por estatinas é prioritariamente mediada pelo grau de redução do LDL-colesterol, independente da dose de estatina utilizada. Métodos: Ensaio clínico randomizado com dois grupos de tratamento hipolipemiante (16 pacientes/cada) e um grupo placebo (14 pacientes). Os dois grupos ativos foram desenhados para promover graus semelhantes de redução de LDL-colesterol: o primeiro utilizou estatina em alta dose (80 mg, grupo sinvastatina 80) e o segundo em baixa dose (10 mg) associada a ezetimiba (10 mg, grupo sinvastatina 10/ezetimiba) para otimizar o efeito hipolipemiante. A função endotelial foi analisada pela vasodilatação mediada por fluxo (VMF) antes e após 8 semanas de tratamento. Resultados: A redução no LDL-colesterol foi semelhante entre os grupos sinvastatina 80 e sinvastatina 10/ezetimiba (27% ± 31% e 30% ± 29%, respectivamente, p = 0,75). O grupo sinvastatina 80 apresentou incremento da VMF de 8,4% ± 4,3% no basal para 11% ± 4,2% após 8 semanas (p = 0,02). Da mesma forma, o grupo sinvastatina 10/ezetimiba apresentou melhora da VMF de 7,3% ± 3,9% para 12% ± 4,4% (p = 0,001). O grupo placebo não apresentou variação no nível de LDL-colesterol ou da função endotelial. Conclusão: A melhora da função endotelial com uso de estatina parece depender mais da redução do LDL-colesterol, independente da dose de estatina utilizada, do que de mecanismos pleiotrópicos.

Apontamentos acerca da Cadeia do Ser e o lugar dos negros na filosofia natural na Europa setecentista / Notes on the Chain of Being and the place of blacks in eighteenth-century European natural philosophy

Por meio da análise de obras acadêmicas produzidas por filósofos naturais no século XVIII, pretendemos discutir algumas ideias recorrentes acerca da Grande Cadeia do Ser. Para tal, analisamos as relações entre filosofia e teologia natural no período. Reavaliamos ainda alguns elementos da Cadeia do Ser, investigando autores que discorreram sobre o tema em seus escritos. Por fim, elencamos um ponto específico das discussões setecentistas sobre a scala naturae, qual seja, as diversas e nem sempre convergentes ideias de que, a partir de características específicas, haveria diferenças entre os homens, bem como seu consequente lugar na Cadeia do Ser.

This examination of academic works produced by eighteenth-century natural philosophers discusses some recurring ideas about the Chain of Being. To this end, the article analyzes the relations between natural philosophy and theology during the period. It also re-evaluates some elements of the Chain of Being through an exploration of authors who addressed the topic in their writings. Lastly, it identifies a specific element within eighteenth-century discussions of scala naturae, to wit, the various and not always convergent ideas about whether there are differences between humans based on specific characteristics and, consequently, about the places they occupy in the chain of being.

Comparison of Postprandial Lipemia between Women who are on Oral Contraceptive Methods and Those who are not / Comparação da Lipemia Pós-Prandial de Mulheres que Utilizam e Não Utilizam Contraceptivo Oral

Background: Postprandial Lipemia (PPL) is a physiological process that reflects the ability of the body to metabolize lipids. Even though the influence of oral contraceptives (OC) on PPL is not known, it is a known fact that their use increases fasting lipid values. Objective: To compare the PPL between women who are on OC and those who are not. Methods: A prospective analytical study which assessed eutrophic women, aged between 18 and 28 years old, who were irregularly active and with fasting triglycerides ≤150 mg/dL. They were divided into two groups: oral contraceptive group (COG) and non-oral contraceptive group (NCOG). Volunteers were submitted to the PPL test, in which blood samples were collected in time 0 (12-hour fasting) and after the intake of lipids in times 180 and 240 minutes. In order to compare the triglyceride deltas, which reflect PPL, the two-tailed Mann-Whitney test was used for independent samples between fasting collections and 180 minutes (Δ1) and between fasting and 240 minutes (Δ2). Results: Forty women were assessed and equally divided between groups. In the fasting lipid profile, it was observed that HDL did not present significant differences and that triglycerides in COG were twice as high in comparison to NCOG. Medians of Δ1 and Δ2 presented significant differences in both comparisons (p ≤0.05). Conclusion: The results point out that women who are irregularly active and use OC present more PPL in relation to those who do not use OC, which suggests that in this population, its chronic use increases the risk of heart conditions. .

Fundamento: Lipemia pós-prandial (LPP) é um processo fisiológico que reflete a capacidade do organismo de metabolizar lipídeos. Embora não seja conhecida a influência dos contraceptivos orais (CO) na LPP, sabe-se que o seu uso eleva os valores lipídicos de jejum. Objetivo: Comparar LPP entre mulheres que utilizam e não utilizam CO. Métodos: Estudo analítico prospectivo, no qual foram avaliadas mulheres eutróficas, com idade entre 18 e 28 anos, irregularmente ativas e com triglicerídeos de jejum ≤150 mg/dL divididas em dois grupos: grupo contraceptivo (GCO) e grupo sem contraceptivo (GSCO). As voluntárias foram submetidas ao teste de LPP, no qual amostras sanguíneas foram coletadas no tempo 0 (jejum de 12 h) e após ingestão de lipídios nos tempos 180 e 240 minutos. Para comparação dos deltas dos triglicerídeos, que refletem a LPP, entre as coletas de jejum e 180 min (Δ1) e jejum e 240 min (Δ2), foi utilizado o teste de Mann-Whitney bidirecional para amostras independentes. Resultados: Foram avaliadas 40 mulheres divididas igualmente entre os grupos. No perfil lipídico de jejum, observou-se que a HDL não apresentou diferença significativa e que os triglicerídeos do GCO foram o dobro do GSCO. As medianas de Δ1 e Δ2 apresentaram diferença significativa nas duas comparações (p ≤0,05). Conclusão: Os resultados apontam que mulheres irregularmente ativas que utilizam CO apresentam LPP maior que aquelas que não utilizam CO, sugerindo que nessa população seu uso crônico aumenta o risco de doenças cardiovasculares. .

Atorvastatin in the management of tinnitus with hyperlipidemias

To determine the role of atorvastatin in management of tinnitus in patients with hyperlipidemia. Quasi-experimental study. ENT Department, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, from July 2011 to August 2012. Ninety eight patients of tinnitus with sensorineural hearing loss having hyperlipidemia were included in the study. Their pre-therapy serum cholesterols were measured, and tinnitus scores were recorded on a 'Tinnitus handicap questionnaire'. They were administered tablet atorvastatin 40 mg once daily with low fat diet for 8 months. After 8 months of therapy, patients were purposefully divided into responsive and unresponsive group depending on serum cholesterol levels. Post therapy serum cholesterol levels and tinnitus scores were also recorded after 8 months and compared with pre-therapy records. Serum cholesterol came to within normal limits in 51 [52%] patients [responsive group], while it remained high in 47 [48%] patients [unresponsive group]. Improvement in tinnitus score in the responsive group was seen in 36 [70.5%] patients and in 2 [4.2%] patients of the unresponsive group. Improvement in tinnitus scores was compared in the two groups using Fisher's exact test and were found to be statistically better in the responsive group [p < 0.001]. Tinnitus, in patients having hyperlipidemia, can be successfully dealt with by treating hyperlipidemia with lipid lowering agent atorvastatin

Co-administration of trientine and flaxseed oil on oxidative stress, serum lipids and heart structure in diabetic rats.

The administration of flaxseed oil or flaxseed oil plus trientine in diabetic rats reduced triglyceride, very low density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol. Furthermore, the combined treatment significantly increased superoxide dismutase activity and attenuated serum Cu2+. The results suggest that the administration of flaxseed oil plus trientine is useful in controlling serum lipid abnormalities, oxidative stress, restoring heart structure, and reducing serum Cu2+ in diabetic rats.

Effects of Emblica Officinalis (AMLA) on Serum Lipids and Atherogenesis in Albino Rats Fed with High Fat Diet.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Emblica officinalis (Amla) extract on serum lipids and atherogenesis, in albino rats fed with high fat diet. Materials and Methods: Healthy albino rats of Wistar strain (150-200 gm each) were randomized into five groups of six animals each- Group A (received normal diet), Group B (received normal diet + Emblica officinalis extract 1 gm/kg BW) Group C (received high fat diet consisting of vanaspati ghee and coconut oil at a ratio of 3:2, at a dose of 10 ml/kg/day), Group D (received high fat diet + Emblica officinalis extract 1 gm/kg BW) and Group E (received high fat diet + simvastatin 1.8 mg/ kg BW). Treatment period was 8 weeks. At the end of 8 weeks, lipid profile was evaluated by estimating total cholesterol, serum triglyceride, serum LDL, serum HDL and atherogenic index. Results: Ethanolic extract of Emblica officinalis showed significant antihyperlipidaemic activity (P< 0.01) with significant improvement in atherogenic index (p<0.01). Conclusion: Present study suggests that Emblica officinalis extract at a dose of 1 gm/kg BW exerts antihyperlipidaemic effect comparable to that of simvastatin. It also possesses hypolipidaemic activity.

Evaluation of antihyperlipidemic activity of ethanolic extract of Cassia auriculata flowers.

Hyperlipidemia is a major risk factor for development of coronary artery disease. Cassia auriculata is traditionally used in India for medicinal purposes. In this study, effect of ethanolic extract of Cassia auriculata flowers (Et-CAF) was investigated in Triton WR1339-induced hyperlipidemic rats. Treatment with the Et-CAF (450 mg/kg b.wt) significantly reduced the total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL) levels and significantly increased the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level associated with reduction of atherogenic index in hyperlipidemic rats. However, there was no change in the serum lipid profile of normal rats treated with Et-CAF alone. The results suggest that Et-CAF has a beneficial effect in treating hyperlipidemia and may serve as a potential drug for prevention of hyperlipidemic atherosclerosis.

Hypolipidemic effects of alismatis rhizome on lipid profile in mice fed high-fat diet

To investigate the effect of Alismatis rhizome [AR] extract on lipid profile in mice fed high-fat diet. The study was performed in Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Resource and Compound Prescription [Hubei University of Chinese Medicine], Ministry of Education, Wuhan, China, between December 2009 and June 2010. Forty male Kunming mice [8-week-old] were randomly divided into 4 groups and were treated for 4 weeks: Group 1: normal control, Group 2: high-fat control, Group 3: positive control and Group 4: AR 2.26g/kg. The hypolipidemic effects of AR were evaluated by serum lipids, liver lipids, and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Serum aminotransferases and histopathological changes were also measured. Alismatis rhizome treatment resulted in an obvious decrease in serum and liver cholesterol, triglyceride along with elevated serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in hyperlipidemic mice. The histopathological results showed that adipose vacuoles in AR treated mice liver were almost identical to those of normal control mice. Serum alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase and the relative liver weight in AR treated mice were decreased significantly. Alismatis rhizome substantially decreased the mRNA expression of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase [Hmgcr], while the expressions of sterol regulatory element binding factor 2 [Srebf2] and cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase [Cyp7a1] were marginally affected. These results confirmed the efficacy of AR in the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Alismatis rhizome may act by decreasing the liver synthesis of cholesterol, rather than by increasing the cholesterol catabolism

Biochemical, histological and histochemical studies of oat [Avena sativa] on hyperlipidemic rats

Hyperlipidemia is an elevation of lipids in the blood stream and these lipids include: fats, fatty acids, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, phospholipids, and triglycerides. Hyperlipidemia is associated with hepatic fat accumulation. Six groups [5rat/group] of female albino [Rattus albinus] were used. The 1[st] group used as control, in the 2[nd] group Hyperlipidemia [25% fat and 2% cholesterol] was induced for 3 weeks only then sacrified, the 3[rd] group was hyperlipidemic rats for 3 weeks then left other 3 weeks without any additional treatment as a recovery period, the 4[th] group served as hyperlipidemic group for 3 weeks then treated with Avena sativa for another 3 weeks [200 g/Kg diet], the 5[th] group was hyperlipidemic [25% fat and 2% cholesterol] for 6 weeks and the 6[th] group served as hyperlipidemic rats for 6 weeks, and at the same time given Avena sativa in diet [200 g/Kg diet]. The biochemical parameters showed highly significant increase in body weight, serum glucose, AST, ALT, GGT, LDH, urea, creatinine, total protein, albumin, total lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol, while there was highly significant decrease in HDL- cholesterol.Many histopathological and histochemical changes were detected in liver tissue of the hyperlipidemic rats. Meanwhile, the treatment with oat ameliorated the biochemical parameters, histological and histochemical results. It is recommend to use oat in diets for hyperlipidemic patients or those people who have hyperlipidemic family history

Prevention of cardiovascular disease based on lipid lowering treatment: a challenge for the Mexican health system / Prevención de la enfermedad cardiovascular basada en tratamiento hipolipemiante: un reto para el sistema de salud de México

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the percentage of Mexican adults that may require lipid-lowering treatment according to National Cholesterol Education Program-III guidelines, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2006 (ENSANut 2006). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Information was obtained from 4 040 subjects aged 20 to 69 years, studied after a 9 to 12 hours fast. RESULTS: A cardiovascular risk equivalent was found in 13.8 percent and >2 risk factors were present in 31.5 percent of the population. LDL-C concentrations were above the treatment goal in 70 percent of the high-risk group and in 38.6 percent of subjects with >2 risk factors. Nearly 12 million Mexicans should be taught how to change their lifestyles and close to 8 million individuals require drug therapy to decrease their cardiovascular risk. CONCLUSIONS: Thirty percent of Mexican adults require some form of lipid-lowering treatment (lifestyle modifications in 36.25 percent, drug therapy in 24.19 percent).

OBJETIVO: Calcular el porcentaje de adultos que requiere tratamiento hipolipemiante de acuerdo con las recomendaciones del Programa Nacional de Educación en Colesterol-III, usando los datos de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición 2006. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron 4040 individuos con edad entre 20 y 69 años estudiados bajo un ayuno de 9 a 12 horas. RESULTADOS: Un equivalente de enfermedad cardiovascular fue identificado en 13.8 por ciento de los participantes. El 31.5 por ciento de la población tenía >2 factores de riesgo cardiovascular. La concentración de colesterol LDL estuvo arriba de la meta terapéutica en 70 por ciento de los casos con alto riesgo cardiovascular y en el 38.6 por ciento de los sujetos con >2 factores de riesgo. Cerca de 12 millones de mexicanos deben modificar su estilo de vida para reducir su concentración de colesterol LDL. Casi 8 millones califican para recibir tratamiento farmacológico. CONCLUSIONES: Una tercera parte de los adultos requiere alguna forma de tratamiento hipolipemiante (cambios en el estilo de vida: 36.25 por ciento, medicamentos: 24.19 por ciento).

Antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activity of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. leaves and calyces extracts in rats.

Antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activities of the extracts of leaves and calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa were investigated by studying their in vitro inhibitory activity on lipid peroxidation and in vivo effects on cholesterol induced hyperlipidemia. Highest antioxidant activity was exhibited by ethanolic extract of calyces followed by ethanolic extract of leaves followed by aqueous extract of leaves of H. sabdariffa. In cholesterol induced hyperlipidemic model, groups of rats treated with extracts of calyces and leaves of H. sabdariffa showed a significant decrease in the serum TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, TAG values alongwith an increase in serum HDL-C levels. The treated groups also showed significant decrease in the atherogenic index, LDL-C: HDL-C risk ratios, and in the levels of SGOT, SGPT and ALP activities compared to cholesterol induced hyperlipidemic control group. Significant antihyperlipidemic activity was shown by ethanolic extract of calyces, followed by ethanolic extract of leaves. It was observed from the histopathological findings that rats fed with H. sabdariffa extracts showed decrease in granular degeneration caused by cholesterol feedings. Results suggest that the ethanolic extracts of calyces and leaves of H. sabdarifa containing polyphenols and flavanols possess significant antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activities.

Cardiac risk factors in rheumatoid arthritis patients and its relation to disease activity

The aim of this study was to assess cardiac risk factor "Serum profile total cholesterol [TC], Triglycerides Rehabilitation [T.G], high density lipoprotein [HDL], low density lipoprotein [LDL] lipoprotein a [LP [a]] in RA patients and its relation to disease activity. Cardiac Risk Factors Profile serum total cholesterol [TC], Triglycerides [TG], high density lipoprotein [HDL]. low density lipoprotein [LDL] and Lipoprotein a [LP [a]] were assessed for 48 [RA] patients and 20 healthy age and sex matched controls. Comparison of lipid panels revealed that serum [TC]. [HDL] and [LDL] levels were insignificantly lower in [RA] patients compared to controls while [TG] levels was insignificantly higher in [RA] patients compared to controls and [LP[a]] level was found to be significantly higher in [RA] patients. Correlating serum lipids levels to different parameters of disease activity in [RA] patients showed that patients with moderate disease activity have significantly lower [TC] [LDL] and insignificantly lower [TG] than those with mild disease. [LP[a]] was found to be significantly higher in patients with moderate disease activity and correlated positively with ESR. Male sex, older patients [>40 years] and old age at disease onset [>35 years] were found to be predictors of risk for ischaemic heart disease [IHD]. We conclude that [RA] patients are at higher cardiovascular risk due to dyslipidemia and the effects of chronic inflammation on vascular biology

Nutritional and biochemical status of copper, zinc, Zn/Cu ratio, iron and iron stores, in hyperlipidemic and healthy men

There are evidences suggesting associations between serum Cu, Zn/Cu, Fe and ferritin and hyperlipidemia. Considering the increasing prevalence of hyperlipidemia, the objective of this study was to determine and compare serum Zn, Zn/Cu, Fe and ferritin status in normo- and hyperlipidemic men. This cross-sectional study investigated 96 adult men divided into three groups [32 persons in each group] according to their lipid profiles [hypercholestrolemic, hypercholestrolemic + hypertriglyceridemic, normolipidemic]. For all subjects, 10cc samples of fasting venous blood samples were obtained. Serum lipids and iron were measured using the enzymatic method. Serum levels of copper and zinc were measured by atomic absorption spec, and ferritin by Elisa. Dietary intakes were estimated using a 24-hr recall and 2 days dietary records. Dietary data were analyzed using the food processor II software. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. Iron intake was considerably higher in the hypercholestrolemic + hypertriglyceridemic group, compared to normolipidemic subjects [28.9 +/- 1.6 mg vs 23.2 +/- 1.8 mg, p < 0.05]. Iron serum levels in the hypercholesterolemic [99.3 +/- 2.9 micro g/dL] and hypercholestrolemic + hypertriglyceridemic [122 +/- 5.8 micro g/dL] groups were significantly higher than healthy males [85 +/- 9.3 micro g/dL] [p < 0.05]. There were no differences between the other variables among study groups. Considering the changes of iron status in the hyperlipidemic group in this study, it is recommended that serum and dietary status of iron shoud be evaluated in these individuals

effect of glycemic control on serum lipids and calcium - phosphate profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of glycemic control levels in type 2 diabetic patients on the serum lipids and lipoprotein profiles and the serum levels of calcium, phosphate and some other electrolytes. The study was conducted on 81 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, who were attending the Outpatient Diabetic and Endocrine Clinic in King Khaled Hospital, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The patients were classified into two groups depending on their glycosylated hemoglobin [HbAi]; First: those with good glycemic control [GGC] who had their HbAic 7.5% [n = 43]. The control group comprised of 52 healthy subjects. All anthropometric and biochemical measurements were carried out using the standard methods. Both control and diabetic groups showed high prevalence of obesity with BMI values > 30 [32.2% of C, 34.2% of GGC and 39.5% of the PGC]. The fasting serum glucose levels in GGC and PGC groups were significantly higher than control by 77.3% and 1.1-fold, respectively. The serum total cholesterol [Tc] in the PGC group showed a significant increase [P < 0.01] by 14.4%, whereas, the GGC was not significantly different from control. Tc showed a significant positive correlation with Hb Ale [r = 0.91, P = 0.00007]. On the other hand, the serum triglyceride was significantly higher [P < 0.01] in both GGC and PGC groups. The VLDL was elevated in the GGC by 96.5% and in the PGC by 100% compared to control, whereas, the LDLc fractions in the GGC and PGC were increased by 9.1% and 16.7%, respectively, but HDL-c was not-altered. The-Serunrrrragnesium and sodium levels were not altered in any of the diabetic groups. However, calcium was significantly raised [P0.05] in the PGC compared to control, but not significantly different in GGC. Serum phosphate in the GGC and PGC exhibited significant increases [P0.001] and [P0.01], respectively. Similarly, the potassium levels were significantly higher in both groups compared to control. The type 2 diabetic patients who had better glycemic control showed favorable lipid and lipoprotein profiles with lower risk factors for atherosclerosis and had moderate calcium and phosphate levels compared to their poorly controlled counterparts